2008 News Archives

November 12: In a disappointing ending for revolutionary camera and sensor maker Foveon, <a href="http://www.foveon.com/press_article.php?a=248" target="_blank">Sigma has purchased the company</a> for an un-disclosed amount. Their radical "three-layer" sensor design never caught on with any of the major camera makers so it is not surprising they have been purchased by their largest customer and partner.
November 11: DPS 6-10: Making the Ordinary Extrarodinary, DigitalPro 5 Announcement and New Product Reviews is <a href="dps/dps-v-6-10.htm" target="_blank">now online</a>.
November 11: Digital Railroad servers to be wiped clean & auctioned. <a href="http://www.nppa.org/news_and_events/news/2008/11/wiped.html" target="_blank">Read the depressing current news</a>. SAA still working to get photographers paid.
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<td width="172">November 11: PC Magazine gives Adobe Photoshop CS4 a rare perfect rating. <a href="http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2330900,00.asp" target="_blank">Read their full review to find out why they are so excited</a>. Then <a href="http://www.nikondigital.org/forum/ubbthreads.php/topics/48303#Post48303" target="_blank">let us know your thoughts</a>.</td>
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November 3: <a href="products/rescue/photorescue.htm" target="_blank">Photorescue Update is now Available for Download</a>. Version 3.1.7 adds support for new Raw file formats and reduces the memory needs when recovering data from large cards. Still a bargain at only $29!
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November 1: Look for RED, makers of some blow-away video cameras to announce a convergence D-SLR + Video camera on November 13. After the enthusiasm for the Nikon D90 and Canon 5D Mark II which both add video to D-SLRs this segment of the market seems to be heating up quickly!
October 31: Hard on the heels of Digital Railroad shutting its doors and leaving photographers who had pre-paid up to a year in advance in the lurch, <a href="http://www.pdngearguide.com/gearguide/content_display/news/e3if5f4f8d2ae... target="_blank">Livebooks has cleverly announced financing options for its photographer clients</a>. It doesn't remove the financial risk, but certainly lessens it.
October 29: URGENT: <a href="http://www.digitalrailroad.net/" target="blank">Digital Railroad</a> is shutting down and photographers with images only have 24-hours to get their images off before they are lost. This is a shame for the industry as DRR was hoping to re-invent stock photography in a photographer-centric way--but like previous efforts they had an unrealistic notion of what was possible and of course the economic downturn didn't help their chances. But in any case, if you have images there, please get them copied to somewhere else! <a href="http://pa.photoshelter.com/mkt/200810/drr.html" target="bland">PhotoShelter is offering a discount to DRR photographers looking for a new home for their images</a>.
October 28: Nikon releases major firmware update for the Nikon D300. Version 1.1 includes more control over Auto ISO, adding Copyright info to images, faster AF, improved Auto White Balance, and a host of minor bug fixes. You can <a href="http://support.nikontech.com/cgi-bin/nikonusa.cfg/php/enduser/std_adp.ph... target="_blank">download for Windows</a> or<a href="http://support.nikontech.com/cgi-bin/nikonusa.cfg/php/enduser/std_adp.ph... target="_blank"> for Mac</a> (serial number needed).
October 28: Penn State profession is able to photgraph coughs, gunshots and other invisible effects. This very cool technique & amazing images are <a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2008/10/28/science/28cough.html?_r=1&hp&o... target="blank">profiled in the New York Times today</a>.
October 27: Genuine Fractals tries for a comeback. The grand-daddy of professional upscalers, GF has languished for many years as inexpensive Photoshop actions and even Photoshop itself have caught up. Today OnOne, who bought LizardTech & its GF product line have introduced <a href="http://news.cnet.com/8301-13580_3-10075650-39.html?part=rss&subj=new... Fractals 6</a> promising that with new texture mapping and other features it'll once again be worth the hefty price tag of $299 for the Pro version. It also includes capabilities for splitting images and making them work well with Gallery Wraps.
October 24: Don't know what to do with your old digital camera? Check out David's new article in PC Magazine for some fun <a href="http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2333204,00.asp" target="_blank">projects you can build with it</a>.
October 20: <a href="http://www.adobe.com/products/photoshop/cameraraw.html" target="_blank">Adobe releases Adobe Camera Raw 4.6</a>, with support for the Nikon D90, Nikon D700, Coolpix P6000, Canon 50D and Canon 1000D. Download for <a href="http://www.adobe.com/support/downloads/detail.jsp?ftpID=4036" target="_blank">WIndows</a> or for <a href="http://www.adobe.com/support/downloads/detail.jsp?ftpID=4033" target="_blank">Mac</a>. This is the last update for Photoshop CS3, so all new cameras from here on are likely to require CS4 to get Raw image support. Camera Raw 5.1 (for Photoshop CS4) is expected later this week and will add all the new cameras to CS4. You should be able to snag that simply by using the Update feature in CS4.
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October 13: D-SLR Video Update: The Nikon D90 has come in for some criticism on its video from Luminous Landscape. Now dpreview has posted <a href="http://www.dpreview.com/news/0810/08101002canon5d_markii_videos.asp" target="_blank">some sample videos</a> from the Canon 5D Mark II. Let us know in <a href="http://www.nikondigital.org/forums/photo/index.htm" target="_blank">our forums</a> whether you think Video in D-SLRs is a real tool or just a gimmick?
October 10: Delkin ships an SD to CompactFlash Adapter. This device may be a godsend for those with both SD & CF cameras, or who merely want to take advantage of the lower cost of SD cards. It is SDHC compatible and <a href="http://www.delkin.com/products/connect/adapters/" target="_blank">worth a try at $30</a>. Previously the only SD to CF adapters were hard to find and very slow, so thanks Delkin for bringing this product out!
September 29: Orphan Works bill sneaks through the Senate--on track for passage in the House. This bill severely limits the rights of small copyright holders. Read what <a href="http://www.asmp.org/news/spec2008/orphan_update.php" target="_blank">ASMP</a>, <a href="http://www.stockartistsalliance.org/node/371" target="_blank">SAA</a>, <a href="http://www.nppa.org/" target="_blank">NPPA</a> and <a href="http://www.apanational.com/i4a/pages/index.cfm?pageid=3385" target="_blank">APA</a> say and how they want you to help stop its passage!
September 29: Photokina is over and DP Review has posted Previews of the <a href="http://www.dpreview.com/previews/canoneos50d/" target="_blank">Canon 50D</a>, the <a href="http://www.dpreview.com/previews/nikond90/" target="_blank">Nikon D90</a> and the <a href="http://www.dpreview.com/previews/SonyDSLRA900/" target="_blank">Sony Alpha A900</a>for those deciding what they want next for a D-SLR. Pretec has also unveiled 100GB CompactFlash cards which will be shipping later this month.
September 25: Nikon releases <a href="http://support.nikontech.com/" target="_blank">Updates to Capture NX2, Control Pro & Transfer</a>. nik updates <a href="http://www.niksoftware.com/" target="_blank">Dfine 2.1 to include Smart Filter & Aperture support</a>.
September 24:<a href="dps/dps-v-6-09.htm" target="_blank">nik Sharpener Pro 3.0, Can Sharpening get any better? Plus a new Photoshop CS4 Learning Center from NAPP. All in issue 6-09 of DigitalPro Shooter the nikondigital.org newsletter.</a>
September 23: Details are emerging on Adobe Creative Suite CS4. PC Mag goes over all the <a href="http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2330946,00.asp?kc=DAILYNEWS_092308_... target="_blank">different Suite options to help you choose</a>. They've also got a <a href="http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2330901,00.asp" target="_blank">preview of Adobe Photoshop CS4</a>.
September 22: Nikon introduces <a href="http://press.nikonusa.com/2008/09/nikon_celebrates_the_75th_anni.php" target="_blank">new 50mm f/1.4 AF-S (G) lens</a> to celebrate 75 years of Nikon Optics. With one of these and a D3 who needs light:-) The lens is priced at $439 and will be available in December.
September 18: Photodex releases ProShow Producer 3.5--adds Blu-Ray support, integrated audio ripping and more extensive keyframe support into their industry leading slideshow and DVD production package. <a href="http://www.photodex.com/eid8848/products/producer" target="_blank">Available immediately for $249, upgrades start at $89.</a>
September 17: Canon introduces <a href="http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2330520,00.asp?kc=DAILYNEWS_091708_... target="_blank">5D Mark II -- 21MP update to the 5D</a> which also captures full 1080p HD video for $3499. 3.5fps stills.
September 15: Adobe Photoshop CS4 and Bibblelabs Bibble 5 to be introduced next week at Photokina. After Johnny L's sneak preview at Photoshop World there is a lot of anticipation about CS4. And today Bibble let us know they'll be announcing the world's fastest Raw processor, Bibble 5, next week at Photokina also. So lots of great new tools for photographers coming up this fall. We'll keep you informed as they ship.
September 15: <a href="http://www.delkin.com/products/popupshades/index.html" target="_blank">Delkin introduced new pop-up LCD protectors for the Nikon D3, D300, D60 and Canon Rebel XSi</a>. 
September 9: Sony a900 D-SLR aims right at the Canon EOS 1Ds Mark III and Nikon D700. A 24.6MP full frame camera with built-in image stabilization, the a900 is priced at $2999 and is capable of 5 fps at full resolution. The a900 will also have an anti-dust system but still weigh in at a remarkably light 30 ounces. The Sony a900 will use either memory sticks (why don't they give up on the memory stick?) or CompactFlash cards. They have also introduced 16-35mm and 70-400mm Zeiss zoom lenses. The camera is due in November, the lenses in January. <a href="http://news.sel.sony.com/en/press_room/consumer/digital_imaging/digital_... target="_blank">Read the Sony a900 product release</a>.
September 8: Want to get more from your Canon Powershot? <a href="http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2329392,00.asp" target="_blank">Learn how Andrei Gratchev's CHDK open-source project of hacks</a> can enable Raw capture, motion detection and lots of other hidden features on your camera.
September 8: Photrade launches first free photographer centric online site for sharing, licensing & selling images at DEMO 2009. You can read the full press release & details in our <a href="http://www.nikondigital.org/forum/ubbthreads.php?ubb=showflat&Number... target="_blank">Photo Business Forum</a>, and let us know your thoughts about how their solution compares with others like Digital Railroad, PhotographersDirect and ZenFolio, or even with traditional stock agencies they are hoping to replace.
<a href="http://www.usa.canon.com/templatedata/pressrelease/20080826_eos50d.html" target="_blank">September 4: Canon fills out D-SLR line with impressive EOS 50D:</a> At 15MP and 6fps and chock full of other pro features including lower high ISO noise than the 40D, the 50D does a great job of going head to head with the Nikon D300. Read <a href="http://www.pdngearguide.com/gearguide/content_display/news/e3ib06feef71f... target="_blank">Chuck Westfall's interview in PDN</a> about the 50D and Canon's thinking. The 50D will be available in October for $1399 or $1599 with a new 28-135mm lens.
<a href="dps/dps-v-6-08.htm" target="_blank">September 3: Strut your Stuff--Advice on Great ways to Share your Images</a> is the feature article in the latest issue, <a href="dps/dps-v-6-08.htm" target="_blank">DPS 6-08, of our Free DigitalPro Shooter online newsletter</a>.
September 1: New "Checkpoint-Friendly" Laptop bags. A Gimmick or a godsend? TSA is <a href="http://www.tsa.gov/press/happenings/simplifying_laptop_bag_procedures.shtm" target="_blank">now allowing laptop sleeves to be used when sending laptops through security</a>. This is good news for those worried about their machines getting cracked or dinged. However, the sleeves can not have any pockets, straps or other obstructions so we're very sceptical about the rush to new bags like the very popular one from <a href="http://www.skoobadesign.com/checkthrough_flash.php" target="_blank">Skooba</a> since a sleeve with pockets & a strap is really much more useful the rest of the time.
August 28:Nikon agrees to pay Microsoft to cross-license patents, allowing both companies to share and use each others innovations. This is pretty standard practice for computer companies, and mostly just goes to show how much the photo & computer industries have converged.
August 27: Nikon introduces the exciting D90: A break-through in "convergence" the D90 can capture both 12MP still images and HD video clips (in 720p which Nikon calls D-Movie Mode). Like the D300 it also features Live View, 11-point AF & a high-rez 3" LCD. At 4.5fps the camera is quick, and it comes with the new 18-105 AF-S/VR lens. MSRP will be $999 for the D90, $1299 for body plus lens--both available in September. The D90 will work with the new GP-1 GPS unit, available in November. See <a href="http://www.nikonusa.com/" target="_blank">NikonUSA</a> for more details.
August 14: DPS 6-07 is now online:<a href="http://www.nikondigital.org/dps/dps-v-6-07.htm" target="_blank"> "Back to Africa" Safari Notes & Announcement, Nikon's new Raw file Format, plus update on Nikon D700 & SB-900</a>
August 7: Nikon introduces flagship Coolpix P6000--featuring integrated GPS, optical viewfinder and tons of other features and a new Raw format (NRW) for use with Nikon ViewNX software & in-camera Picture Control. It will be available in September for $499 MSRP. <a href="/news/releases/nikon_p6000.htm" target="_blank">Read all the details on the Nikon Coolpix P6000</a>.
<a href="http://www.nikonusa.com/" target="_blank">August 7: Nikon Inc. today announced the launch of six new COOLPIX digital cameras</a>. New to the COOLPIX product line and present in each of the new cameras is the Scene Auto Selector Mode, which automatically selects the right scene mode for the image you are shooting for carefree photography. Also "Smile Mode" for portraits, which automatically triggers the shutter when a subject is smiling [ED: We've got to see this!] and Blink Warning, which displays a message when it detects that a subject has blinked. Some models also feature technologies such as a TOUCH-SCREEN interface, Wi-Fi transmission and GPS capabilities. Models include the Coolpix P6000 (above), Coolpix S60 (Touch Screen), Coolpix S610c (Wi-Fi & Wayport Integration).
August 1: Double your D3 buffer with the <a href="http://support.nikontech.com/cgi-bin/nikonusa.cfg/php/enduser/std_adp.ph... target="_blank">newly announced $500 memory upgrade from Nikon</a>.
July 30: BibbleLabs releases 4.1, This update includes support for the new Nikon D700, New lenses and addresses a compatibility issue with upgraded firmware on the Pentax K20D. <a href="http://bibblelabs.com/" target="_blank">A free dowload for registered users</a>. Also <a href="http://bibblelabs.com/products/bibble5/index.html" target="_blank">Bibble has also unveiled a preview video for Bibble 5</a>.
July 22: <a href="http://www.niksoftware.com/company/usa/entry.php?info=company/pressroom/... target="_blank">nik Software releases ColorEfx Pro 3.1</a>, adds support for newest version of Aperture, Nikon Capture NX 2, and 5 new filters. A free upgrade for registered owners of 3.0, and a nice way to get the filters for both NX2 and Photoshop (including Elements) in one package.
July 8: Data Robotics Announces next generation Drobo: Features Firewire 800 Interface, Faster Processor (they claim 2x throughput) and a larger quieter case fan. Price remains the same (which means the current version has been instantly discounted). You can <a href="http://drobo.com/News/PR/press_release_2008_07_08.html" target="_blank">Read all the Details for yourself</a>.
July 2: Updated firmware for Nikon D300 & Nikon D3. Lots of important fixes and some new menus and features in v2.00 for the D3, and a fix for the "battery indicator blinky" problem in v1.03 for the D300.. <a href="http://support.nikontech.com/cgi-bin/nikonusa.cfg/php/enduser/std_adp.ph... target="_blank">D300 for Windows</a>, <a href="http://support.nikontech.com/cgi-bin/nikonusa.cfg/php/enduser/std_adp.ph... target="_blank">D300 for Mac</a>, <a href="http://support.nikontech.com/cgi-bin/nikonusa.cfg/php/enduser/std_adp.ph... target="_blank">D3 for Windows</a>, <a href="http://support.nikontech.com/cgi-bin/nikonusa.cfg/php/enduser/std_adp.ph... target="_blank">D3 for Mac</a>.
July 1: Nikon introduces the Full Frame D700 D-SLR: With features similar to those found in the popular D300 but a full frame sensor like that found in the D3 the D700 will appeal to those looking for a full-frame "pro/prosumer" camera without the size, price and weight of the D3. <a href="/news/releases/nikon_D700.htm" target="_blank">Read the Full Release</a>. The D700 also keeps the helpful sensor cleaning function of the D300 in a full frame camera. It is expected to be available in late July for about US$3000.
July 1: Nikon Introduces SB-900 SpeedLight Flash: Faster, more powerful and with an awesome 17mm-200mm zoom range the new flash also features improved control layout, upgradeable firmware and an optional "Water Guard" for waterproofing. List price is $499 and it is expected to ship in August. A new SD9 battery pack takes 8 AA batteries and reduces recycle time for a full discharge to 1 second. We suspect these will be "must haves" for many pros. <a href="/news/releases/nikon_sb900.htm" target="_blank">Read the full press release</a>.
July 1: Nikon Introduces two new Perspective Control Lenses, the PC-E Micro NIKKOR 45mm f/2.8D ED and PC-E Micro NIKKOR 85mm f/2.8D lenses, expanding a series of lenses that allow photographers to effectively correct perspective and/or depth-of-field to push creative boundaries. These new Perspective Control (PC) lenses correct linear distortion in order to better replicate images as seen by the human eye, including straightening the converging lines of rectilinear objects such as buildings, while also introducing welcome command over depth-of-field. Lenses are expected to ship in August for just over $1700 each.
June 26: B&H has a great deal on the D300. You can get a <a href="http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/518489-REG/Nikon_25432_D300_SLR_Di... target="_blank">D300 for only $1624</a>.
June 24: New versions of PhotoRescue available for download: Added new raw file formats, improved movie recovery, and variable sized thumbnails. <a href="http://tiarater.datarescue.be/associates/cardinalphoto/cardinalphoto.zip" target="_blank">Download for Windows</a> or <a href="http://tiarater.datarescue.be/associates/cardinalphoto/cardinalphotomac.... target="_blank">Download for Mac</a>. Current users can install the update over their existing version. New users can register the download for the bargain price of $29.
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<td width="268">June 13: Treat your Images to a Backup for Father's Day: Seriously, if you're not already making an online backup of your images, it's worth thinking about. External & Network Attached Storage has never been cheaper. High-end options are <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0013G04AQ?ie=UTF8&tag=firstfloorso... target="_blank">Netgear's ReadyNAS</a> (now under $1000 for 1TB) & <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000PDLZ1A?ie=UTF8&tag=firstfloorso... target="_blank">Drobo</a>(now under $500 empty) but there are even a few <a href="http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2319805,00.asp" target="_blank">bargain basement options</a> as well.</td>
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June 6: DxO releases Optics Pro 5.1: Mac Users Can now get the features of <a href="http://www.dxo.com/intl/photo/dxo_optics_pro/exclusive_features/overview... 5</a>, and the <a href="http://www.dxo.com/intl/photo/dxo_optics_pro/news/DxO-Optics-Pro-v5.1-No... version</a> is updated with new Cameras including the D60 and 1DS Mark III. Upgrade is free to users of 5.0. 
 
June 5: DPS 6-06: New Product Round-up: <a href="dps/dps-v-6-06.htm">Lexar Dual Slot UDMA Reader, WRP MP-7 Photo Bag/Backpack, Samsung 320 GB Laptop Internal Hard Drive, Nikon Capture NX 2</a> 
 
June 3: Nikon introduces Capture NX 2: <a href="http://www.nikon.com/about/news/2008/0603_01.htm" target="_blank">Chock full of great new editing features</a>, including an Auto Retouch brush & Shadow/Highlight command as well as dual-monitor support. There is a <a href="http://support.nikontech.com/cgi-bin/nikonusa.cfg/php/enduser/std_adp.ph... target="_blank">60-day trial version available from Nikon USA</a>. NX 2 retails for $179 or $109 for current users of Capture NX. We're particularly curious what readers think about the upgrade policy, so <a href="http://www.nikondigital.org/forum/ubbthreads.php?ubb=showflat&Number... target="_blank">let us know</a>.
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<td>May 23: DPS 6-05: <a href="dps/dps-v-6-05.htm" target="_blank">Special Issue on the Burma (Mynamar) Cyclone Nagris Disaster, Photos of the Area & Relief Effort, and a Way you can Help</a></td>
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May 20: Orphan Works Copyright Legislation is once again heading towards a potential Train Wreck for Photographers. <a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2008/05/20/opinion/20lessig.html?_r=1&oref=sl... target="_blank">Read Lawrence Lessig's analysis & interesting alternative</a>, or catch up on what the <a href="http://asmp.org/" target="_blank">ASMP</a> thinks the effect could be on photogrpahers. Then hop over to our <a href="http://www.nikondigital.org/forum/ubbthreads.php/ubb/postlist/Board/11" target="_blank">Photo Business forum</a> and let us know what you think about Lessig's proposal or about the legislation in general.
May 5: <a href="http://www.stockartistsalliance.org/orphan-works" target="_blank">Stock Artists Alliance (SAA) Speaks Up on proposed Orphan Works Legislation</a>.
May 1: <a href="http://web.canon.jp/imaging/eos1dm3/firmware.html" target="_blank">Canon releases firmware 1.2.3 for Caon EOS-1D Mark III</a>. Improved AF & several custom function enhancements.
April 27: Orphan Works Copyright Bill is in Congress again. Will it further damage photographers' dwindling image licensing revenues. <a href="http://www.epuk.org/Opinion/848/uncle-sams-thieves-charter" target="_blank">Some editorials are convinced the sky is falling</a>. Let us know what you think or hear what others think in our <a href="../../../../../../../../forum/ubbthreads.php/ubb/postlist/Board/11/page/1" target="_blank">Photo Business forum</a>.
April 26: Practically Free Compact Flash Offers: B&H is selling 8GB 300x Lexar CF cards for $169 with an $80 rebate. That is $89 net for one of the world's fastest cards. <a href="http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/485777-REG/Lexar_CF8GB300380_8GB_U... target="_blank">Offer only good until April 30</a>.
April 25:<a href="dps/dps-v-6-04.htm" target="_blank">DPS 6-04: South Texas Trip Report + Exclusive Tips for making your Photo Subjects POP off their backgrounds, complete with sample images</a>
April 21: Take better photos with your Point & Shoot with these 8 handy tips we wrote about for PC Magazine. <a href="http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,1759,2278962,00.asp" target="_blank">The tips are all online</a>.
April 18: Nikon withdraws D3 Firmware Update--Can cause Image Corruption when shooting NEF files at 14-bit Depth. Users are requested to not install the update or not shoot in 14-bit mode if they already have updated until Nikon can correct the issue with another firmware release. <a href="http://support.nikontech.com/cgi-bin/nikonusa.cfg/php/enduser/std_adp.ph... target="_blank">Details on the Nikon USA site</a>.
April 10:Nikon 'Zooms' In On Performance With the New COOLPIX P80, an 18x Zoom Compact Camera: New 27-486mm 10MP Zoom with VR to be released in April for a suggested price of $399.
April 9: Photographer, Author, OP Editor at Large and all around good guy Rob Sheppard has started a new blog on digital photograph, definitely worth reading. It's online at <a href="http://www.photodigitary.com/" target="_blank">photodigitary.com</a>. His latest entry features some interesting notes on comparing the Olympus 4/3 system to the more popular Canon line.
April 4: Nikon pulls even with Canon in D-SLR Sales: Nikon's 3 million digital SLR cameras sold in 2007 almost caught up with Canon's 3.2 million units, a big change from Canon's large lead in 2006, with Nikon's unit sales growing 71% versus Canon's 30%. <a href="http://www.news.com/8301-13580_3-9882670-39.html?part=rss&subj=news&... target="_blank">Full Details</a>.
April 3: Considering 64-bit Windows Vista? You'll want to read the <a href="http://www.extremetech.com/article2/0,1697,2280808,00.asp" target="_blank">performance review on Extreme Tech first</a>. Spoiler Alert: Unless you need the > 4GB memory support, 64-bit doesn't help much with performance in the real world (yet). Obviously performance should continue to improve as 64-bit applications become more mature and more common.
March 31: Adobe Launches Photoshop Express--Free online photo-editing, storage & community website. The Beta is public and you can<a href="http://www.adobe.com/products/photoshopexpress/" target="_blank">Join Now</a>. It features non-destructive editing (ala Lightroom) along with 2GB of free storage for your Photo Gallery, similar to the recent offering from Microsoft. Unlike other offerings from Google & Microsoft this one gets to leverage the Photoshop brand name, which certainly makes it unique.
March 26: Did Canon finally get it right? Rob Galbraith tackles the thorny issue of the AutoFocus on the Canon 1D Mark III and <a href="http://www.robgalbraith.com/bins/multi_page.asp?cid=7-8740-9068-9168" target="_blank">evaluates whether the newest "sub-mirror" fix and firmware update finally lay the issue to rest</a>. Spoiler Alert: His conclusion is that it's better but still not as good as the 1D Mark IIN and that Canon is still quietly working on yet more in the way of a fix.
March 21: Apple releases <a href="http://www.apple.com/support/downloads/digitalcamerarawcompatibilityupda... target="_blank">Raw Update 2.0</a> for Mac, with support for the Nikon D60 and a dozen other models.
March 21:<a href="dps/dps-v-6-03-D3-D300.htm" target="_blank">DPS 6-03: Top 10 Tips on how to Deal with Nikon D3 (or Canon 1D Mark III) Envy</a>, plus a review of the very cool Maha MH-C801D Intelligent Battery Charger.
March 17: Adobe updates Camera Raw to 4.4 with support for the Nikon D60, Canon 450D and other cameras. Also profile fixes for extreme lighting conditions. <a href="http://www.adobe.com/support/downloads/detail.jsp?ftpID=3894" target="_blank">Windows Download</a> and <a href="http://www.adobe.com/support/downloads/detail.jsp?ftpID=3893" target="_blank">Mac Download</a> available. <a href="http://blogs.adobe.com/lightroomjournal/2008/03/important_lightroom_14_a... target="_blank">Note: There are some known bugs in this release</a>, so if you don't need the new camera support you may want to wait a little. We'll post an update then things are "all clear."
March 12: Lexar brings High Performance UDMA to Windows Users--Bummed that you can't use Lexar's Firewire 800 reader on your PC? Now they have a cool Dual-Slot USB version (one slot for CF & one for SD/HC). <a href="http://www.lexar.com/readers/pro_udma_dualslot.html?cmp=UDMA308" target="_blank">Nice!</a>
March 12: Windows Home Server will stay dangerous until at least June:<a href="http://news.yahoo.com/s/cmp/20080312/tc_cmp/206903032" target="_blank">Microsoft says it won't have a patch for the data corruption bug ready until at least then</a>.
March 10: Nikon Service computers down: If you're having trouble approving your NPS service orders, it's not you. Their billing computers are down, possibly until Wednesday, so they can not approve any new work. They are still making approvaed (and presumably warranty) repairs.
March 6: <a href="http://www.marketwire.com/mw/release.do?id=829351&sourceType=1" target="_blank">e.Digital files Patent Infringement suit vs. Nikon, Casio, Olympus, LG and others</a> for alleged infringement of their Flash-R patents. As there is more information on the details we'll keep you posted.
February 28: B&H has a limited number of the brand new Nikon D60 in stock. <a href="http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/542463-REG/Nikon_25438_D60_SLR_Dig... target="_blank">Click here to get yours now before they run out!</a>
 
February 25:<a href="http://www.webpronews.com/topnews/2008/02/25/getty-images-sells-for-24-b... target="_blank">Getty Images "sold" to Hellman & Friedman for $2.4 Billion.</a> In an LBO, the current management team under Jonathan Klein is expected to stay on and run the company for its new owners. The price is a 55% premium over their market value prior to the deal.
February 25:<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2008/TECH/02/25/evidence.photos.ap/index.html" target="_blank">CNN has an interesting update on fake photo detection software</a> being developed by Dartmouth professor Farid. We saw a demo of it last year at PSW and it is quite impressive. The article also mentions Canon's (but not Nikon's) image verification solution.
February 22: Microsoft Windows Home Server is still to be avoided for photographers: Various photo web sites have been singing the praises of Microsoft's new Windows Home Server, but persistent reports of serious image corruption issues including <a href="http://www.dailytech.com/Windows+Home+Server+Still+Crippled+By+Corruptio... target="_blank">this one from DailyTech</a> mean that it is too early to consider it for anyone who values their image archives. Some of the earlier reports are <a href="http://blogs.zdnet.com/Bott/?p=348" target="_blank">online here</a>.
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February 17: Apple ships Aperture 2.0--Substantial speed improvements, lots of new features, and support for new cameras including the Nikon D3 and D300 (in fact you need to upgrade to 2.0 to get support for those cameras). <a href="http://www.apple.com/aperture" target="_blank">Product Details</a>.
 
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February 14: Nikon has released a firmware update for the Nikon D300. Version 1.02 corrects a rare issue where banding can occur in images with over 8s exposure time. You can get the <a href="http://support.nikontech.com/cgi-bin/nikonusa.cfg/php/enduser/std_adp.ph... target="_blank">Download for Windows</a> or the <a href="http://support.nikontech.com/cgi-bin/nikonusa.cfg/php/enduser/std_adp.ph... target="_blank">Download for Mac</a>, along with instructions.
February 5: Dave Black has posted a great and fun to read review of the Nikon D300. It largely corresponds to what <a href="dps/dps-v-5-10.htm" target="_blank">we found when reviewing the D300 compared to the D3</a>, but also includes some <a href="http://www.daveblackphotography.com/workshop/02-2008.htm" target="_blank">great images and his thoughts on which camera is right for you</a>.
January 30: B&H has <a href="http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/518490-REG/Nikon_25434_D3_SLR_Digi... target="_blank">a few Nikon D3 camera bodies in stock</a>, as well as <a href="http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/518489-REG/Nikon_25432_D300_SLR_Di... target="_blank">a good supply of Nikon D300 bodies</a>.
January 30: Panasonic launches a <a href="http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2704,2254202,00.asp" target="_blank">raft of new Lumix models</a> including one which does 720p HD Video for only $349.
January 29: <a href="dps/dps-v-6-02-cambodia.htm" target="_blank">Images of Cambodia: Going beyond the Postcard</a> is now online in DigitalPro Shooter newsletter Volume 5, Issue 2. Get ideas for how to <a href="dps/dps-v-6-02-cambodia.htm" target="_blank">make more out of your travel photo opportunities!</a>
January 29:Nikon introduces entry-level 10MP D60 D-SLR with EXPEED chip, fast start-up, 3fps, support for SDHC & Eye-Fi cards. Available in February, price TBD. <a href="news/releases/nikon_d60.htm" target="_blank">Read the Details</a>
January 29:Nikon introduces 6 new Coolpix models (Coolpix L18, S210, S520, S550, S600, P60), with breakthrough low prices for 8MP to 10MP resolution, packed with features, and some even have a new "Food" mode and "Active Child" mode. <a href="news/releases/nikon_coolpix_jan08.htm" target="_blank">Check out the details</a>.
January 24:Canon introduces <a href="http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2704,2252301,00.asp" target="_blank">new EOS Rebel XSi</a>, 12.2MP D-SLR with 3" LCD, LiveView and improved CMOS sensor for $800 MSRP. The XSi is also Canon's first D-SLR to use SD & SDHC cards instead of CompactFlash cards. It is expected to ship in April and will also be available with the 18-55mm "kit" lens for $900.
January 23: Canon updates its Powershot line with 4 new models the <a href="http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2704,2252195,00.asp" target="_blank">A470, A580, A590 IS, and the SD1100</a>. [Note: I'm looking forward to upgrading my SD1000 to an SD1100 when it comes out in March to take advantage of the addition of Image Stabilization.--David]
January 14: Burma Trip Report & Lithium Battery Update are <a href="dps/dps-v-6-01.htm">online in our DigitalPro Shooter Newsletter Volume 6, Issue 1</a>.
January 8: <a href="http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/518489-REG/Nikon_25432_D300_SLR_Di... target="_blank">B&H now has Nikon D300 cameras in Stock</a><a href="http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/518489-REG/Nikon_25432_D300_SLR_Di... target="_blank">, although they're sure they'll run out again soon, so act quickly if you want one!</a> They also have the <a href="http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/519905-REG/Nikon_25359_MB_D10_Mult... target="_blank">MB-D10 vertical grip</a> in stock.
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<td width="135">November 10: Colorvision's new generation of excellent color management products is now available. We'll be posting a more complete review, but as an active beta tester, we've been very impressed by both the new monitor measuring hardware and the accuracy of the monitor and print profiles from Spyder3. Elite is the monitor package, Print is for printers and Studio gets you everything.</td>
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